Graphic novels or comics are just one of many materials that are now used in many English 101 and other literature courses. However, it was not until the late 80s and early 90s that they began to really be used more in an educational setting. Writers (and comics experts) like Scott McCloud (author of Understanding Comics) argued in the early 90s that comics would become more than just something people read for entertainment or that are not regarded highly for educational purposes.
In the course lectures for September 19th and for October 3rd, you will find that I talk about graphic novels and their use in the classroom. I, of course, am not the only instructor that has utilized them in their courses. Many scholars and educators seem to agree that they are helpful for students for various reasons.
However, even arguments that prove to be successful can often be up for debate. Your assignment is to make your own argument for or against the use of graphic novels in literature/English composition courses. What do the experts say? Are there people who support this? Are there naysayers? Do you think McClouds and other scholars arguments for the use of graphic novels for more than just entertainment purposes are convincing ones? Why or why not?
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